Harlan E. Smith

Mason, Michigan

Harlan Evro Smith, age 93, died August 3, 2013. He was born in Leslie, Michigan, April 24, 1920, to Frank Seth Smith and Vera May Spangler Smith. Harlan graduated from Lansing Eastern High School in 1938. He went on to attend Michigan State College after which he began working for the New York Central Railraod as a Telegraph Operator, Dispatcher and Chief Dispatchers from 1940 until 1963. His career was interrupted in 1942 when Harlan went into the Army. His Honorable Service began in the 82nd Infantry, continued with the 153rd Signal Company of the 13th Armored Division, and concluded overseas as a First Lieutenant serving under General Patton's 3rd Army in France and Germany. In 1946, Harlan continued his career at the railroad. In 1963, he purchased Perkins Hardware in Mason, where he enjoyed giving the name "Pard" to all his customers, which also became Harlan's nickname. After retiring in 1981, he and his wife enjoyed winters in Arizona where he learned and later taught the art of silversmithing. Harlan was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Mason, where he served as Assistant Treasurer and as an Elder; a member of Browne-Cavender American Legion Post 148 and of Kiwanis Club of Mason; a Past President of County Seat Parking Authority; served on the Ingham County Draft Board; a member of Masonic Lodge #70; and a Cub Scout Master.

Harlan is survived by his wife of 70 years Mary Jeanette Davis Smith of Mason, 2 sons, Allan (Jo) Davis Smith of Colorado, and Richard (jennifer) Harlan Smith of Mason; 2 granddaughters, Brianne (Eric) Smith Scott of California and Stephanie (Zachary) Smith Utley of Colorado; 2 great-grandsons, Brady and Logan Scott; 2 brothers, F. Allan Smith of Traverse City and Robert Smith of West Bloomfield; brother-in-law, Jack Davis of Mason; many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be Thursday, August 8, from 6-8 PM at the First Fresbyterian Church of Mason, 131 E. Maple Street, Mason, MI. Memorial Services will be held 2 PM Friday, August 9 at the church with The Rev. Bill Pinches and The Rev. Dr. W. Fred Graham officiating. Memorial contributions can be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Mason.

The family thanks Timber Ridge Assisted Living for making Harlan's last two years more comfortable and enjoyable.

The family is being served by the Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, Mason. On-line condolences may be made at www.grbd.mason.com